Fashion, Fashion, Fashion! Don’t we all just love fashion? The growth of the Nigerian fashion industry has definitely been on

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Overtime, I’ve found that it’s easier for people to express what they don’t want in a relationship than it is to express their wants. This isn’t surprising because in life generally, it’s easier to focus on negative things than it is to focus on the positive. Little do we know that if we channel half as much energy on positive thoughts as we do on negative thoughts, we’ll have healthier relationships and a better society.

People use different techniques to get what they want; some use the direct approach, some others are manipulative, and a smaller percentage decide not to talk and shell. The disadvantage of this is they may quietly feel resentful toward their partner for not automatically knowing what they want. Their inner voices tell them they are unworthy or trying to convince them that they will experience humiliation, hurt, or rejection if they go after what they want. If you know someone who does this, drag them to read this they’ll find it helpful.

Nigerian women empowering others… that’s what we stand for at One Woman NG. #PressForProgressNG was the tip of the iceberg, and we have more plans in store as an initiative. We’re set to inspire you with stories of Nigerian women making the move for women empowerment a reality in their chosen space all year long. We will share their learnings, failures and advice with you in mind.

The first of many featured women is Ask Damz, a leading certified nutrition expert and coach in Nigeria. She’s also the founder of a popular fitness program that’s helping thousands of Nigerian women become the healthiest version of themselves. It all started with her amazing 2013 body transformation, where she lost approximately 35kg and built a network and business empire shortly after.

At One Woman, we support the notion of women empowering women, encouraging the creation of opportunities and growth in the workplace and business landscape. That’s why we consider the process of mentorship as highly important, amongst other things.

In anticipation of #PressForProgress this International Women’s Day 2018, we asked members of our One Woman Community what’s the best piece of advice from a mentor they have ever received. Here’s what they had to say:

There is a difference between DISCOURAGEMENT, INAPPRECIATION AND HONEST CRITICISM. You should be able to spot the differences – @zeeautiful_atelier

Always seek to be a person of value; don’t do to others what you can’t accept yourself – @oremicraft

Be in competition with your best of yesterday. That’s is the one true way you can measure growth and progress, not by competing with others – @thefitmumhub

There’s so much to celebrate about the phenomenal African woman – from the richness of her mind to the vastness of her dreams. We hope these quotes help to inspire and unleash the greatness that lies within.

More inspo awaits you on our Instagram page by the way. We just kicked off a Women’s History Month series, remembering Nigerian women of old who caused impact in different fields. Make sure you follow and tune in:

“I’m convinced that we Black women possess a special indestructible strength that allows us not only get down but to get up, to get through and to get over” – Janet Jackson

As the love month comes to an end, here are some special ways to show your customers you care as a businesswoman on the rise:

1. Include a goody bag in their order:

Who doesn’t love receiving extra gifts? You don’t have to go all out and empty your bank account. A thoughtful gift that will put a smile on your customers face is not too much to do. They’ll feel valued by you and they’ll be more likely to become a return customer.

It’s a topic most Nigerian women know too well, the art of patronising a friend’s business, just to show support. Whether it’s a bakery, a catering outfit, a tailor’s shop, a wig store… the list of small businesses young Nigerians start these days is endless, and we each have at least one friend who spearheads such.

Now there are businesses, and there are businesses. Some offer products/services of excellent quality, while others do the exact opposite. If your friend’s business sadly falls into the latter category, it can be an awkward place to find yourself in. After all, you genuinely want this person to succeed but also don’t want to say or do the wrong thing that could ruin the friendship.

What’s a Naija woman to do? Read on for some tips on handling the situation if you’re in one right now:

Resist pressure to patronise: For the love of you, especially in these dire economic times, “suffering” with a product or service, just to appear supportive, isn’t fair to you. Business is business, and if there are other service providers offering the same product or service at a more affordable rate without compromising on quality, then by all means, go for theirs.

Valentine’s Day may be long gone, but remember it’s still the season of love! Make it a season to remember with these fun challenges with your significant other. Try your best not to miss any day and share your thoughts on the outcome of each day.

Day 1: Heard of the five love languages before? Take the test with your partner on Dr. Gary Chapman’s website. This will help you discover each other’s love language and start developing ways to adopt it.

Day 2: Tell him three (random) things you appreciate about him. This will go a long way in his eyes, especially if his love language is “words of affirmation”. Be honest and don’t throw in words you don’t mean.

Day 3: Go on a date to one of your favourite places, somewhere you’ve both been before. This will bring back fond memories and offer more opportunities for connecting.